November 14, 2018
As your trees start to display their beautiful fall colors, it’s a good reminder that now is the time to start planning for winter pruning. Your trees are already thinking about the colder months, as they transition into dormancy. You should be in the habit of thinking about this transition as well.
Pruning during the “dormant season” or winter months when the branches are exposed is an ideal time to take care of your trees. There are many reasons for this including the health of the tree and the safety of the arborist.
First and foremost, pruning in the dormant season causes less stress on the tree. Trees can seal the wounds caused from the cut faster during this time. The tree is not using all of its resources for growing new leaves and branches and is more likely to be able to seal a wound. Just like you need rest to repair wounds to your body, a tree best recovers during time of rest.
Wounds are also susceptible to insect damage. Insects are the cause of many diseases that plague trees because they carry harmful bacteria. Insects are less active in the colder months, therefore less likely to infect a wound created from pruning.
It is much easier to see where to prune when the leaves are not in the tree. This is safer for the arborist and can prevent potentially tying in to broken limbs. During this time it’s much easier to tell which areas are problematic. It also makes the limbs lighter and easier to remove, making it more efficient and saving you time and money.
Ice and snow can break branches which can cause damage to the tree, so pruning early in the season is ideal.If you wait too late, you can cut new growth in the spring which can set the tree back.
Our winter season is filling quickly. We have already almost filled our calendar for January. Contact us soon to schedule a meeting with an arborist.
